Askot

Askot stands on a ridge in the eastern Kumaon Himalayas, between the river systems of the Gori and Kali. Its name is associated with the many forts once held by its rulers. Routes through the mountains linked the principality with Nepal and Tibet; traders and pilgrims passed through on their way towards the high Himalayan passes.

In 1279 Abhaya Pal established a principality here after the decline of the Katyuri dynasty. Askot remained an independent buffer state until Rudra Chand of Kumaon conquered it in 1588. Its local rulers, known as Rajwars, retained a measure of autonomy in return for annual tribute to the Chand kings. Under Gorkha rule from 1791 to 1815 the tribute increased, and disputes arose within the ruling family over succession.